J-L Chave Selection Crozes-Hermitage 'Silène' Rouge 2022

Jean-Louis Chave, continuing a family winemaking tradition dating back to 1481, has established himself as one of the Rhône's most respected vignerons. Operating from the village of Mauves, Chave oversees 13.9 hectares spread across nine sites on the hill of Hermitage. His winemaking philosophy centres on producing wines that purely express the grape and terroir, achieved through meticulous vineyard management and minimal intervention in the cellar.

Chave's approach involves vinifying only the healthiest grapes from low-yielding vines, limited use of whole bunches, and aging in neutral oak barrels. The wines are bottled without filtration, resulting in some of the Rhône's most precise and sophisticated examples. A key factor in Chave's success is his exceptional blending skill, particularly evident in the Hermitage rouge, which consistently features Syrah from the steep, granitic slopes of Bessards as its backbone.

In addition to his prestigious domaine wines, Chave offers a more accessible range under the Jean-Louis Chave Sélection label. These wines, sourced from specific Rhône appellations and Chave's own vineyards, provide an entry point to his winemaking style at a fraction of the cost of his top cuvées.

The Crozes-Hermitage Silène showcases Chave's expertise with Syrah in a more approachable format, featuring notes of dark berries, spices, and a supple palate. Pair with pork, beef or lamb.